Coronavirus: UK support to the Overseas Territories

Since March 2020 the Government has been working with the authorities of the UK’s Overseas Territories, to ensure they receive the help they need to manage the Covid-19 pandemic. 

That help has focused primarily on supporting their healthcare systems and economy, ensuring continuity of transport links and access for supplies, and providing security assistance. 

Due to the rising number of Covid-19 cases globally, and the emergence of new variants of the virus, the Governent has introduced a number of changes to the requirements for international travel. On 18 January 2021 the Government suspended the travel corridors that allowed exemption from Covid-19 quarantine rules on arrival into the UK. All travellers, including those from the Overseas Territories, must now have proof of a negative Covid-19 test taken within 72 hours prior to travel, and must self-isolate for 10 days upon arrival. Under the Test to Release scheme, an individual can choose to end their self-isolation early by paying for a private Covid-19 test. 

At the time of writing Covid-19 infection rates in the Overseas Territories are relatively low. While the Government has not made any specific statements about planning for future waves of the pandemic, should the Overseas Territories be adversely affected, it has made clear that its suport is enduring. Financial assistance will continue to be provided on a case by case basis, while additional military support will be provided as needed or requested.

The Government has confirmed that it is procuring vaccines on behalf of the Overseas Territories. Deliveries began on 5 January 2021.